There are a lot of serums out there, from eyelash serums to all kinds of face serums. If you only have room (or the patience) to add one to your skincare routine, though, experts urge you to go with one with vitamin C. Most people may know about vitamin C formulas for their brightening effects, but this powerful ingredient can do so much more.
“Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that fights fine lines by stimulating collagen, brightens your complexion by blocking excess pigment creation, and protects your skin from damaging free radicals and other environmental stressors that can cause premature skin aging,” says Michelle Henry, MD, board-certified dermatologist at Skin & Aesthetic Surgery of Manhattan. "As we age, the skin’s natural levels of antioxidant vitamin C decrease, which is why it’s so important to add it to your skincare routine.” The only downside? Compared to most products, it often costs more per ounce. However, dermatologists agree that it's worth the investment because all skin types, ages, and skin tones can benefit from adding a vitamin C serum to their routine. To help you find the best one for you, keep scrolling for our favorite and dermatologist-recommended options.
The experts:
- Michelle Henry, MD, board-certified dermatologist at Skin & Aesthetic Surgery of Manhattan
- Tsippora Shainhouse, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Los Angeles
- Brooke Jackson, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Skin Wellness Dermatology Associates
- Erin Gilbert, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Gilbert Dermatology
- Nichelle Mosley, founder of Queen City Beauty Group and a board-certified aesthetician in North Carolina
- Mona Gohara, MD, a board-certified dermatologist with Dermatology Physicians of Connecticut
Best Overall: Dr. Brandt C Scription Serum
Why We Love It
- Provides an instant and long term boost in radiance
- It's ultra-moisturizing
What to Consider
- It's a splurge
This vitamin C serum works over time to boost radiance. It contains fast-acting THD (a type of vitamin C) to make skin look instantly more gleamy after each use and ascorbyl glucoside for a gradual release of vitamin C to brighten the complexion over time. "I love how moisturizing this formula is and how glowy my skin looks after working it into my skin," says Oprah Daily beauty editor Genesis Rivas. It's also great for improving skin firmness because it supports collagen production to help reduce wrinkles and lines.
Oprah Daily beauty editor Genesis Rivas using the Dr. Brandt C Scription Vitamin C Serum.
How We Chose the Best Vitamin C Serums
We've researched, tested, and sifted through reviews to find the most effective formulas available on the market. We also interviewed dermatologists to get insight into their favorite picks and what to look for. Ahead, these face-brightening-and-tightening formulas—suitable for a wide range of skin concerns, including acne, hyperpigmentation, oiliness, dryness, and sensitivity—are the best vitamin C serums money can buy.
FAQ
What does vitamin C do?
- Vitamin C is an antioxidant that fights fine lines by stimulating collagen
- It brightens your complexion by blocking excess pigment creation
- It protects your skin from damaging environmental stressors
- To make sure you get the best return on your investment, here are a few things to keep in mind: Skip creams spiked with vitamin C and instead choose a serum, which is more effective at penetrating the skin barrier, Additionally, there are several forms of vitamin C—and not all are created equal, says Henry. Check the label for L-ascorbic acid, which is considered to be the vitamin C that’s best for skin.
Why should you use a vitamin C serum?
- The aging process reduces the skin's natural levels of antioxidants, leaving skin with more lines and less glow as you get older
- Regularly using vitamin C will improve the look of your skin overall, so you can save money on primer, foundation, concealer, and highlighter
What should you look for in a vitamin C serum?
- Skip creams spiked with vitamin C and instead choose a serum, which will more effectively penetrate the skin barrier
- L-ascorbic acid is a more potent form of vitamin C, so check the ingredient label for that specifically. (Even better: if it contains 15 to 20 percent L-ascorbic acid, which is the most effective)
- Vitamin C is unstable, especially when exposed to air and light, so pick a formula that comes in an airtight pump or opaque bottle, and keep it away from direct sunlight
How do you use a vitamin C serum?
- Apply after cleansing but before moisturizing for optimal results
URL: https://www.oprahdaily.com/beauty/g28640232/best-vitamin-c-serums/
